Shirley J. Swenson's Obituary
Shirley J Swenson, 81 of Tacoma, Washington passed away at Hospice House, August 5, 2025. She was born January 2nd, 1944 to the late Jacob and Pauline Diel of Dighton Kansas. She attended Emporia State Teacher’s College. After marrying the love of her life she started her teaching career in the Tacoma Public School district where she taught first and second grade for over 30 years. Most of which were spent at Lowell Elementary when she retired in 1998.
She was preceded by her late husband Douglas Swenson of 52 years. She is survived by: son Chris (Mia) Swenson; daughter Tara (Sander) Groothuis; grandchildren Sean and Emma Swenson, Matthew and Lars Groothuis and a host of wonderful nieces of nephews. She was preceded in death by her six brothers and sisters.
Shirley loved spending time with her family and friends, gardening, listening to music singing in their church choir, teaching, and traveling.
A Memorial Service will be held at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church by the Narrows during the week of July 6-10, 2026. Exact time and date to be decided.
"Loved by many, missed by all, on August 5th she heard God's call.”
Shirley and Doug are together again!
In lieu of sending flowers please donate to Tacoma Rescue Mission on-line.
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